Airplane Noise – Getting Down

When I first threw on Airplane Noise’s sophomore five song EP, Getting Down, ska was the first genre that came to mind.  But fifteen minutes later, it was also the last.  Whatever the case, I sense that the New Jersey four-piece simply wants to be described as a fun-loving pop punk group filled with simple, uplifting melodies and ideas – and to that end there should be little ambiguity.

Getting Down kicks off with “Go Ahead,” a bubbly synth pop piece that begs comparisons with Motion City Soundtrack, but comes off more in line with something like Five Iron Frenzy.  The unyielding electronic wave, coupled with a bouncy rhythm makes for a synth tone that could just as easily find substitution in a horn section.  As the track makes out, Airplane Noise offers an accessible take on simple pop punk, easy on the ears and quick to fall into memory.  Lead vocalist Warren Miller provides a high toned but altogether casual pitch that those who complain about “whinny” vocals should find little fault with, and Kevin Centofanti’s thumping bass line keeps the whole stroll rich and full of substance.

The next track follows suit, but midway through the EP the group ditches the synth and slows things considerably.  For “One Cup Of Coffee” they even pick up a harmonica and introduce a slower, sleepier side to their personae.  They continue developing this side into “I Will Always Win,” which comes across as a breezy, somewhat sad, acoustic number in the vein of Good Old War or Dandelion Snow, but without as much emotional outpouring.  On that note, Airplane Noise could probably benefit from some additional lyrical development.  While nothing is too simple, content suffers from mild degrees of predictability.  Themes are hit or miss, revolving around a love and life nature.  The aforementioned “I Will Always Win” does show a promising wit though, so hopefully their messages strengthen over time.

Simple, fun, and surprisingly well-rounded, Airplane Noise enters the scene on an undeniably good note.  While I doubt Getting Down will be a candidate for high personal rotation, as a quick distraction, each listen remains uplifting and enjoyable.